Checklist: Pump Less, Save More

IF YOU'RE GOING...

Follow these fuel efficiency tips to save at the pump this summer—and all year long.

PACK LIGHT Don't overload your trunk. Every 100 pounds of extra weight can decrease your fuel economy by one to two percent.

CONTROL YOUR CRUISING Aggressive driving can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent on highways and five percent around town. Drive sensibly—avoid speeding, and sudden starts and stops.

TUNE IT UP Getting your car tuned up can improve gas mileage an average of four percent. Fixing a serious problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can increase your mileage up to 40 percent.

FILL YOUR TIRES You lose up to two percent on gas mileage for every pound of pressure your tires are underinflated. Since tires can be down by five percent and look properly inflated, you could be buying 10 percent more gas than you need.

USE THE RIGHT FUEL GRADE Using a higher octane level than is required by your car's manufacturer doesn’t help the performance of your car, or your wallet.

Shop around for the cheapest gas in U.S. and Canada with AAA Gas Price Finder at AAA.com/gas.

This article was first published in July 2008. Some facts may have aged gracelessly. Please call ahead to verify information.